What's Happening?
The Greater Des Moines Partnership is actively engaged in preparing individuals across all experience levels for future career opportunities within the region. This initiative follows a recent analysis by McKinsey & Company’s Institute of Economic Mobility,
presented at The Partnership’s Regional Summit in October, which projects a gain of approximately 35,800 jobs in Greater Des Moines by 2035. Significant growth is anticipated in sectors such as business and finance, education, STEM, transportation, and management. The Partnership emphasizes the development of critical thinking, problem-solving, professional community, and adaptability, which are identified as crucial skills for the evolving workplace, even with advancements in artificial intelligence. As Iowa's largest economic and talent development organization, the Partnership collaborates with various stakeholders to build a robust talent ecosystem aimed at attracting, retaining, and developing a skilled labor force essential for economic success and company growth in the region.
Why It's Important?
This focus on talent development is crucial for the economic vitality and sustained growth of the Greater Des Moines region. By proactively addressing future workforce needs, the Partnership helps ensure that local businesses have access to a skilled labor pool, which is a key factor in their ability to expand and innovate. The emphasis on 'durable, human-centered skills' like critical thinking and adaptability is particularly significant in an era of rapid technological change, including the rise of AI, as these skills are less susceptible to automation and remain valuable across various industries. This strategic investment in human capital can enhance the region's competitive advantage, attract new businesses, and provide residents with opportunities for career advancement and economic stability, thereby fostering a resilient and prosperous local economy.
What's Next?
The Greater Des Moines Partnership will continue to design and implement signature talent programs targeting various educational and professional stages, from K-12 students to top-level organizational leaders. This includes advancing awareness of AP business, personal finance, and cybersecurity courses in high schools, facilitating connections between students and employers, and supporting programs like The Legacy Project: Career Ready Collective and DSM Intern Connection. For professionals, initiatives such as the BPC CEO Master Class and the DSM Leadership Intensive will expand, alongside existing programs like the Young Professionals Connection and the DSM Fellowship Program. Furthermore, the Partnership plans to develop actionable steps for businesses, particularly small and medium-sized enterprises, to enhance their AI fluency, following insights from a recent AI Roundtable. These ongoing efforts aim to ensure the region's workforce remains prepared for future challenges and opportunities.
Beyond the Headlines
The proactive approach to talent development in Greater Des Moines reflects a broader understanding of the evolving nature of work and the economy. Beyond simply filling job vacancies, the initiative addresses the fundamental shift towards skills that complement, rather than compete with, technological advancements like AI. This strategy acknowledges that while technology can automate routine tasks, human attributes such as critical thinking, creativity, and interpersonal skills become even more valuable. This long-term investment in human capital could serve as a model for other regions facing similar workforce challenges, highlighting the importance of a holistic talent ecosystem that integrates education, industry, and community efforts. It also underscores a commitment to equitable opportunity, ensuring individuals at all career stages can adapt and thrive in a dynamic economic landscape.
